For most companies, managing energy costs is an overlooked opportunity for savings. Collectively, the business community spends around $60 billion a year on gas and electricity, which accounts for up to 40 percent of their operating budget, according to some sources. Fortunately, reducing overhead doesn’t require a major overhaul or reorganization. In fact, by following these five energy-saving tips for small businesses, companies can trim spending and boost efficiency through smart investments and better habits.
Turn Off the Lights
Lighting an empty office is a waste of money, but is surprisingly common. Some companies leave the lights on as part of their marketing strategy. Illuminating signs or displays helps promote their brand and attract potential customers. In most cases, however, it’s simple forgetfulness.
Often, workers or janitorial staff, eager to get home, leave without remembering to hit the light switch. In these cases, timers or occupancy sensors are the best solution. They automatically shut off the lights in empty rooms and after hours.
Buy Efficient Office Equipment
Computers, copiers, and data servers are responsible for a large share of office energy consumption, close to 20 percent in some cases. ENERGY STAR laptops, desktops, and monitors have been tested and certified by officials from the EPA and U.S. Department of Energy, to guarantee efficiency.
These agencies even evaluate printers, routers, telephones, document scanners – everything needed to run a modern office. ENERGY STAR devices are 25-30 percent more efficient than standard models. Installing an ENERGY STAR server saves over 650 kilowatt hours a year! So before purchasing new equipment, check its certifications to make sure what you’re buying will conserve energy over the course of its lifespan.
Shade Your Windows
On a hot day, sunlight can raise indoor temperatures by as much as 15°F. This is a serious concern during summer, when your cooling system is running practically nonstop. It’s also a considerable advantage in winter, when you’re running your heating system every day. Installing day shades helps you navigate these competing incentives by preventing sun exposure when it’s hot and encouraging it when it’s cold, in order to relieve the strain on your HVAC equipment.
Day shades block 40-95 percent of the light coming into your building, depending on the weave of the fabric. Some reduce UV rays by over 99 percent as well. They also lessen the need for artificial lighting. Even though they reduce glare and excess heat, they still let in enough natural light to illuminate the space, leading to even greater savings.
Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats don’t just control temperatures. They track HVAC performance, allowing you to adjust your heating and cooling schedule according to use and occupancy, so your HVAC system runs only when needed. Some models even alert you when they require maintenance, such as a filter change or coil cleaning, in order to optimize performance.
Upgrade Your Lighting
While fluorescent lights are a major improvement over incandescent light bulbs, they can’t compete with Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). LEDs use 40-60 percent less energy and last two to three times longer than fluorescent lights. What’s more, they produce less heat and reduce eye strain, improving comfort while making it easier to maintain a comfortable workplace.
Save on Commercial Energy Repairs with Agway
While small changes can produce long-term savings, repair programs provide financial security. Heating, cooling, and powering your business gradually wears down your internal wiring and HVAC system. Property insurance doesn’t cover this type of damage, but we do. Agway’s EnergyGuard™ Repair Program protects you from these types of problems, allowing you to recover quickly when the need for repair occurs.
In the event of a breakdown, our customers don’t have to waste time searching for a qualified repairman. They call us instead. Our service team maintains a network of certified contractors and electricians throughout your area and sends the first available one straight to your building. There’s no need to worry about deductibles or service fees either. We pay for the visit and all covered parts. Don’t let a breakdown jeopardize your business. Sign up and start enjoying the benefits of EnergyGuard™ today!
